Exploring Side Gigs 101: Is Photography a Good Side Hustle?

Nowadays, everyone's looking for creative ways to boost their income. Enter side hustles—the modern-day gold rush.

Among the countless options, photography stands out, shimmering with potential. With smartphones turning everyone into casual photographers, is there still a space for dedicated enthusiasts to turn this passion into profit? Yes, there is! 

Let's zoom in and focus on the big picture.

Wedding photography is a rewarding business.

Can I Make Money With Photography as a Side Hustle?

Photography can be a lucrative side hustle when approached with dedication and strategy. The key lies in understanding the market, identifying niches, and offering unique perspectives.

With the proliferation of smartphones, everyone's a photographer these days. However, professional photography requires a keen eye, technical knowledge, and equipment to provide top-of-the-line photography services.

How Much Does a Side Hustle Photographer Make?

The earnings of a side hustle photographer can vary widely based on factors like location, niche, experience, and the number of gigs. 

According to salary.com, the average freelance photographer's salary in the United States is $45,064 as of August 2023, and the salary range typically falls between $39,578 and $52,179.

However, other photographers specializing in commercial or wedding photography can charge much higher rates.

Here are some niches and how much money they can bring in: 

  • Portrait photography: They specialize in capturing portraits of individuals or groups. This can range from family portraits to professional headshots. Typically, they can charge anywhere from $100 to $500 per session, depending on experience and location.

  • Wedding photographer: Captures moments during weddings, including pre-wedding shoots, ceremonies, and receptions. They can earn between $1,000 to $10,000 per wedding, depending on their reputation and the wedding's scale.

  • Commercial photographer: Works with local businesses to take photos of products, services, or models for advertising purposes. Commercial photographers can charge between $250 to $500 per hour or more, depending on the project's complexity.

  • Fashion photographer: Collaborates with fashion designers, models, and magazines to shoot photos highlighting clothing and other items. Depending on the client and project, earnings can range from $500 to $5,000 per day.

  • Wildlife Photography: They Specialize in photographing animals and nature in their natural habitats. This niche can be unpredictable, with earnings ranging from $20,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on photo sales, publications, and assignments.

  • Event photography: Covers various events, from corporate functions to birthday parties, capturing candid moments. Typically, event photographers charge between $200 to $500 for a few hours.

  • Real estate photographers: They capture properties and highlight their features for real estate listings. They can earn between $100 to $500 per property, depending on the property's size and location.

Pros of Photography as a Side Hustle

Photography isn't just about snapping pictures; it's about capturing moments, telling stories, and creating art. A photography side hustle offers unique advantages:

  • Flexibility on your terms: Photography lets you set your schedule. Whether you're an early bird catching the sunrise or a night owl capturing city lights, you decide your hours.

  • Unleash your creativity: Every click is a canvas for your imagination. Photography offers a unique blend of art and technique, allowing your creativity to shine.

  • Diverse avenues to explore: The world of photography is vast. From capturing candid moments at weddings to the precision of product shots, there's a niche for every interest.

  • Expand your network: Every photo session is an opportunity to meet new people, learn their stories, and grow your connections, paving the way for more gigs and collaborations.

Cons of Photography as a Side Hustle

While a photography side hustle might seem enticing, it's crucial to approach it with a clear perspective. It's not merely about capturing stunning images or landing high-paying gigs; it comes with its challenges:

  • Upfront costs: The initial investment can be hefty. Good quality cameras, lenses, and editing software are costly.

  • Feast or famine: Especially in the beginning, gigs might be sporadic. There could be months overflowing with bookings and others that are dry.

  • Stiff competition: With many entering the field, discovering a unique identity and standing out becomes challenging.

  • Behind-the-scenes time: The shoot is just half the story. Editing, post-processing, and client consultations can be time-consuming, often taking longer than expected.

Tips for Succeeding as a Photographer

  • Master the basics: Understand the fundamental principles of photography, such as the rule of thirds, exposure, and composition. Take courses to improve your photography skills.

  • Invest in good equipment: While skills are paramount, having a reliable camera, lenses, and photo editing software can make a significant difference.

  • Build a strong portfolio: Showcase your best work as a professional photographer. This will be your visual resume and the first point of contact for potential clients.

  • Use social media: Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are great for photographers. Regularly post your work, engage with followers, and use relevant hashtags. You can also link to your photography blog.

  • Practice ethical photography: Always respect your subjects, especially when photographing people or wildlife. Seek permission when necessary, and avoid intrusive or harmful practices.

Other Side Hustle Ideas to Maximize Your Income

If photography as a side hustle isn't quite your focus or you're seeking to diversify your income streams, there are other intriguing avenues to consider:

Sell photos

You can sell photos online on your own website or join stock photography sites to offer your creations. 

Selling stock photos online may include digital and photo prints for other photographers or companies that need your creative products.

Capitalize on your data

Photography is about sharing visuals, but what about sharing data? Tools like SavvyConnect allow you to monetize your online interactions, ensuring your privacy and data security are paramount. 

Similarly, the National Internet Observatory (NIO) turns your data into a treasure trove for research organizations seeking insights, ensuring you're rewarded and your information stays secure.

Delve into market research studies

Just as photography offers different niches, so does market research. Associated with Survey Junkie, SJ Pulse presents a unique blend: online surveys combined with phone usage data collection. If you're comfortable sharing insights about digital interactions, this could be an additional profitable path to walk alongside photography.

Complete paid surveys

While photography captures moments, platforms like Forthright capture opinions. This platform rewards you with cash and gift cards from top retailers for taking online surveys on different topics. With Forthright, not only do you get to share your perspective, but you also get rewarded for it.

Selling photo prints is a good way to start your photography business.

Money is Calling Your Name!

Photography can be a rewarding and profitable side hustle, especially if you're passionate and strategic about it.

Like any other business, a photography business requires dedication, continuous learning, and a bit of networking. So, if you've got an eye for capturing beautiful moments and are ready to invest time and effort, photography might be your side hustle.

Want to delve deeper into the world of photography or explore more side hustle ideas? Keep reading our posts at DataRich for more insights and tips!